Salerno is the main town on the Amalfi Coast, the popular tourist destination on the west coast of Italy. Located on the Gulf of Salerno, the area is well known for its beautiful scenery and spectacular beaches, as well as offering visitors an impressive selection of freshly caught and locally prepared, seafood dishes. However, there is also a lot of culture to explore in the area and in the town of Salerno itself.
Being on the coast, Salerno offers the opportunity to take plenty of long walks on the beachfront, including along the five kilometre Lungomare Trieste, a promenade complete with palm trees that took its inspiration from the French Riviera. As well as exploring the medieval quarter of Salerno on foot, with its narrow twisting paths and hidden squares, visitors can also climb the Colle Bellara, a small hill which nevertheless offers spectacular views up the Amalfi Coast. If you prefer parks to the beach then you can spend a whole day exploring the ten hectare Parco del Mercatello, one of the largest gardens in the whole of Italy.
Palaces and churches
Every corner of the old quarter of Salerno appears to be home to another historic palazzo. Many are now private homes, but visitors can still appreciate the architectural qualities of the exterior. Some have been converted into hotels, if you are lucky enough to find one that has vacancy in summer.
There are two forts or castles in the town too, the Castello di Arechi and the Forte La Carnale. The first is a massive castle, which dominates the town of Salerno and was built on the site of an ancient construction. As well as visiting the building and exploring the different rooms, the location provides an impressive view over the city and out to sea – the perfect spot to build a defensive fortress.
Archaeology
As well as the town’s Museo Archeologico Provinciale, which is home to a famous sculpture of the head of Apollo, there are also several areas of archaeological note in Salerno, including Etruscan buildings and artefacts at Fratte and Sanniti. Researchers have found a huge necropolis at the latter which is now open to the public. The Salerno Cathedral is home to a twelfth century crypt, which is supposedly where one of the twelve disciples is buried. Unsurprisingly, such an attraction is the most visited building in Salerno.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Salerno? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Salerno and villas in Salerno that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
